Cyber threats evolve daily. And even small businesses are at risk. In fact, it can be worse for small businesses. Criminals are planning on the premise you are assuming you’re not big enough to be a target, so you don’t put any protections in place – which makes you a great target.
The reality is that protecting your business isn’t just a nice-to-have for all businesses, small or large, good or bad; it’s essential. The ramifications of a cyber attack that goes wrong are more far-reaching than first imagined. For purpose-driven SMEs and BCorp-certified businesses, securing customer data, ensuring business continuity, and maintaining trust are crucial for building trust with clients, protecting profits, and enabling growth. Cyber Essentials Certification is a game changer that ensures that cybersecurity is a tool for better business.
Cyber Essentials, a UK government-backed certification, aims to help companies of all sizes guard against common cyber threats. A recent report, The Cyber Essentials Scheme Impact Evaluation created by The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), along with Pye Tait Consulting, with input from industry leaders, explored the impact, shedding light on why so many organisations are now embracing this scheme.
If you’re a senior manager or founder dedicated to your business’s purpose and goals, here’s why Cyber Essentials could be a game-changer for you:
1. Strong Baseline Protection with High Impact
The Cyber Essentials certification offers a straightforward way to implement the fundamental controls needed to fend off the most common cyber threats. And it works. The study showed that the controls included in the Cyber Essentials framework can mitigate 99% of internet-originating vulnerabilities. It may not protect against sophisticated, targeted attacks, but it provides proven effective, critical baseline protection.
For SMEs without dedicated IT resources, this certification represents a manageable, affordable way to safeguard your operations without adding complexity. And it works. The NCSC’s Annual Review 2023 suggests that 80% fewer cyber insurance claims are made when Cyber Essentials is in place (based on 2022 claims data). This is compared with organisations that have the same insurance policy and do not have Cyber Essentials certification. A strong indicator of the scheme’s efficacy.
2. Increased Awareness and Confidence in Cyber Resilience
For leaders in purpose-driven businesses, understanding cyber risk is essential. Cyber Essentials doesn’t just set up technical defences; it helps to instil a deep-rooted awareness of cyber security across the organisation. According to the report, 85% of certified organisations believe Cyber Essentials has directly improved their understanding of potential cyber risks and the steps needed to reduce them.
This certification boosts confidence—not only among IT teams but also among senior management—who become more equipped to prioritise and support cyber initiatives. With a proactive, informed approach, leaders can make cyber resilience a core element of the company’s mission.
3. Enhanced Trust and Market Competitiveness
Purpose-driven businesses depend on trust. By displaying Cyber Essentials certification, companies can reassure clients, partners, and stakeholders that they take security seriously. In fact, the report shows that nearly 70% of certified organisations feel their certification has strengthened market competitiveness. For businesses in BCorp and sustainability circles, it’s about more than just compliance—it’s about fostering trust and building relationships.
This trust has tangible benefits. Nearly half of Cyber Essentials-certified businesses report that they save time on cyber security due diligence for their supply chains, thanks to the assurance provided by the certification.
4. Strengthening Supply Chain Resilience
Cyber Essentials is increasingly used as a benchmark for cyber security in supply chains. It provides assurance that vendors and partners have met baseline security standards, streamlining the process of identifying and managing cyber risks. Over half of certified organisations say the certification has helped them address supplier cyber security more effectively, providing peace of mind across the value chain.
For BCorps and other purpose-driven companies, certification safeguards their business and reflects their commitment to high standards throughout their network. [In the same way that you audit your suppliers from an ESG perspective, this is the cyber security equivalent]
5. Fueling a Culture of Continuous Cyber Security Improvement
One of the most powerful outcomes of Cyber Essentials certification is the positive cultural shift it encourages within organisations. The report found that 76% of certified businesses took additional preventive actions beyond the scheme’s technical controls, such as adopting new software, updating policies, or conducting regular risk assessments. For many organisations, Cyber Essentials is the start of an ongoing journey in strengthening cyber resilience and awareness.
This proactive stance positions your business to keep pace with evolving threats rather than reactively addressing vulnerabilities as they arise. With this culture of continuous improvement, you’re protecting your company and reinforcing your commitment to doing business responsibly.
6. Streamlining Cyber Due Diligence for Client Assurance
In today’s business landscape, clients expect robust cybersecurity measures. Nearly half of the certified organisations in the report found that Cyber Essentials helped reduce the time spent on cyber due diligence, especially in partnerships or contract discussions. This advantage frees up resources and allows business owners to focus on growth and impact, knowing they have met a standard their clients can trust. [Again – just like ESG due diligence]
7. Making a Statement About Purpose, Security, and Responsibility
Cyber Essentials isn’t just about technical controls; it’s about demonstrating a commitment to transparency, responsibility, and resilience. For purpose-driven SMEs and BCorps, the certification aligns with the values of accountability and care. Regarding cyber security, customers and partners value this dedication and see certification as a mark of trust.
Cyber Essentials certification is not only a protective measure; it’s also a powerful tool for enhancing your brand and positioning your business as a trusted, resilient partner in today’s digital world.
Take control of cyber security and gain freedom with ITGUYS
At ITGUYS, we know that purpose-driven companies face unique pressures to protect themselves responsibly and affordably. As certified experts in Cyber Essentials, we partner with businesses to free them from the complexity of cyber security, allowing them to focus on their mission. With us by your side, achieving Cyber Essentials certification is straightforward, achievable, and incredibly valuable for your brand, security, and peace of mind.
Contact us today to learn how Cyber Essentials can benefit your organisation. Let ITGUYS give you the freedom to concentrate on what you do best while we take care of your IT.
